Revival, year 3, and Amazing, year 6, took part in the Games of Ranginui, a Linwood Rugby Club initiative for year 1-8 pupils from schools in the east.
The brothers are able to hone their skills at the event with support from their whānau.
Games were then held for all ages in a festival-like atmosphere at Linfield Park on Friday afternoon.
“I’ve been playing rugby since last year, and my mum really enjoys watching me play,“ said Revival.
He said getting to play alongside his older brother was a highlight.Amazing said he “wants to play rugby like his dad”.
“He used to play rugby all the time.”
The event allows families to connect with other parents and caregivers while watching their children participate.
A successful one-off pilot programme last year attracted more than 250 children, but feedback suggested it be held over several weeks instead.
Jack said the club recognised attempts to increase participation in traditional Saturday morning games were not working as the cost of travel, subs and equipment were barriers to some families.
Linwood instead decided to offer Games of Ranginui in partnership with Canterbury Rugby and Tamai Sports to ensure more children have access to the benefits of sport.
In its first week, the festival attracted almost 70 players who had not registered with Linwood before. On the final Friday, the festival catered for over 100 new tamariki playing rippa and tackle rugby.
The club now hopes to deliver a similar programme in term two. Anyone interested in signing up is encouraged to visit www.linwoodrugby.co.nz/registration
